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Introducing Portugal

Portugal Travel Guide

A sun-soaked land on the Iberian peninsular with plenty to offer
to both short- and long-term visitors, Portugal's great attraction
is its gorgeous coastline, and in particular, the southern region
of the Algarve, where an array of top-class beach resorts (once
sleepy fishing villages) provide luxurious ocean-side
accommodation. The region's year-round fine climate, and its easy
accessibility (several low-cost European carriers provide direct
cheap flights to the Algarve), mean that it is a hugely popular
winter sun vacation destination, as well as the perfect place for a
weekend getaway when the daily grind of city-life becomes too much.
Seaside towns like Albufeira and Lagos are home to some of the best
beach resorts in the Algarve, providing a heady mixture of
sheltered beaches, outstanding natural scenery and high-quality
lodgings.

There is far more to Portgual than its beaches, however. As
anyone who has ever set foot in Lisbon's
historic Alfama district, or travelled to the medieval town of
Evora will tell you, the country is home to some breathtaking
architecture, and some true cultural treasures. Notable tourist
sights in Lisbon include the Jeronimos Monastery, a prime example
of Manueline architecture; the iconic Monument to the Discoveries;
and the most-photographed building in all of Portugal, the Tower of
Belem.

This geographically varied country also offers skiing
opportunities at the Vodafone Ski Resort in the Serra Estrela
Mountains. This craggy, forested mountain range is also a great
area for walking and hiking trails, and is the place to go for
those craving the pampering of a spa resort holiday in
Portugal.

Best time to visit Portugal

Portugal has a typically Mediterranean climate, characterised by
hot, dry summers, and cool, wet winters. The southern coastal
region of the Algarve is more temperate than inland regions. The
best time to visit Portugal is during spring and autumn, when the
weather is warm and fine, and there aren't too many tourists
around. However, summer is the high season, and is probably when
the ocean is at its most appealing; while in winter, airfares and
accommodation prices are much lower (a bonus for budget-conscious
travellers). Read more on
Portugal's Climate and Weather.

What to see in Portugal

-The
Azores is a remote collection of nine gorgeous islands that
have (thus far) been spared from the worst effects of
overdevelopment and mass tourism.

What to do in Portugal

-Fly directly to the Algarve,
and waste no time staking your spot on one of the region's
magnificent sandy beaches.

-Jump on Electrico 28, and enjoy a historic tram ride through
Lisbon's most interesting neighbourhoods.

-Take a winter sun vacation to Loule and join in the colourful
Carnival celebrations.

-Take to the streets of Lisbon's Alfama area after
dark, and enjoy some local cuisine and live music at one of the
city's famous Fado bars.

Holiday resorts in Portugal

Portugal has a number of popular resorts for sun-seekers looking
for the perfect beach holiday. Ranging from lively nightlife to
secluded and remote, whether party central or family-friendly,
there is a place for everyone in Portugal. Find your perfect
Portugal holiday resort here.

Getting to Portugal

Flights to Portugal are available from a wide range of airports
in the UK and USA. Several low-cost European carriers offer direct
cheap flights to the Algarve region's Faro Airport from UK
destinations, while from the USA it is possible to find direct
cheap flights to Lisbon or the Azores. Connections within Portugal
are plentiful and affordable. Get more information on
Airports in Portugal.

Read

Baltasar and Blimunda by Jose Saramago and The Last
Kabbalist of Lisbon by Richard Zimler.

Watch

Belle Epoque (1992) and Lisbon Story (1994).

Eat

Piri-piri chicken (especially from Guia), and salted cod
(bacalhau).

Drink

Red wine, port from Porto, and try the regional speciality vinho
verde, a very crisp green wine that goes excellently with fish and
seafood dishes.

What to buy

Fado music CDs, iconic dolls from the Nazare region, and local
Portuguese fashion, which, although not widely known, is often chic
and trendy.

What to pack

Pack plenty of sunscreen for a holiday in Portugal, as well as
some after-sun lotion, which can soothe the worst effects of
spending too much time out on the beach.

What's on in Portugal

Lisbon
Carnival (February) is a festive, colourful celebration that
draws thousands of visitors each year. The well-attended Estoril Open (April to
May) is one of the highlights of the international clay-court
tennis circuit. Classical music enthusiasts will delight in the
Great Orchestras of
the World concert series (November to April), held in Lisbon's
famed hall, the Coliseu dos Recreios. More information on
Portugal Events.

Did you know?

-Lisbon's Vasco da Gama Bridge is the longest bridge in
Europe.

-Portugal's University of Coimbra was established in 1290,
making it one of the oldest universities in Europe.

-In 2007, Portugal's national rugby team became the first
all-amateur team to ever qualify for the Rugby World Cup.

A final word

Whether you choose to luxuriate on one of its golden beaches, or
head inland and do a little exploring of the country, you are bound
to have a rich and rewarding experience travelling through
Portugal.

Become our Portugal Travel Expert

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